Developmental disabilities board has awards celebration

NEWARK – The Licking County Board of Developmental Disabilities hosted its first awards celebration in honor of nearly 100 independent providers and dozens of local agencies that provide direct services to Licking County residents with developmental disabilities.

The Center for Disability Services, KICKS, LICCO Inc., Newark Resident Homes, PALS and Spark were all recognized for their efforts to promote self-advocacy among the adults they serve.

Additionally, CSS, PALS and the Center for Disability Services were honored as members of The Excellence Network. Membership in the organization signifies a level of quality in performance that is beyond compliance with rules.

The board also presented a Make A Difference Award to eight local people who went above and beyond in 2014 and greatly affected the life of a Licking County resident who has developmental disabilities.

Steve Carpenter, Adena Clayton, Amy Gartner, Meagan Hickman, Faith Nobilucci, Martina Merida, Alice Sharrock and Jakeb Stallworth received this award based on a nomination from their peers, local families, or the Licking County Board of DD staff.